After the devastating loss of his beloved 1991 Ford Escort Cosworth Group A rallycar to a fire in the summer of 2018, automotive icon Ken Block, known for his exhilarating Gymkhana series and the legendary Hoonicorn Mustang, embarked on a mission for 2019: to resurrect and reimagine the Cossie. This wasn’t just about rebuilding; it was about evolving. Enter the “Cossie V2,” a breathtaking embodiment of everything Block and his global fanbase adored about the original Ford Escort Cosworth, amplified and enhanced for the modern era of performance and style, reminiscent of the boundary-pushing spirit seen in projects like the Hoonicorn.
Block, collaborating with digital design visionary Ash Thorp, envisioned a contemporary interpretation of a Ford Escort RS Cosworth rallycar. Imagine if the Escort were conceived today, and the cutting-edge Ford World Rally Championship design team were tasked with its creation. The result is nothing short of spectacular: the Cossie V2. It’s a machine that arguably redefines the very essence of a wild-looking Escort RS “Cossie,” channeling the same innovative and extreme ethos that made the Hoonicorn a global phenomenon.
Cossie V2: Under the Hood and Skin
This isn’t just about aesthetics; the Cossie V2 is a powerhouse of engineering and performance. Let’s delve into the specifications that make this machine a true successor to the Cossie legacy and a worthy stablemate to the Hoonicorn in spirit.
Engine: Julian Godfrey Engineering Powerhouse
At the heart of the Cossie V2 roars an engine meticulously crafted and supplied by Julian Godfrey Engineering. This isn’t your average motor; it’s built around the formidable 2000cc Escort WRC Engine, featuring a lightweight aluminum block and a bespoke Development intake manifold. Boosting performance further is an IHI Turbo Charger, equipped with a 34mm Restrictor, ensuring optimal power delivery and responsiveness, vital for the kind of precision driving Block is famous for, mirroring the raw power of the Hoonicorn.
Body: MDV Specialist Engineering’s Artistry
The Cossie V2’s striking body is a testament to the fabrication and modification expertise of MDV Specialist Engineering Ltd. To accommodate the advanced Sadev transmission, significant chassis modifications were undertaken. HRD/MDV took charge of designing and developing the aggressive front bumper and splitter, the aerodynamic rear bumper and diffuser, the widened rear quarter panels, the sleek side sills, the lightweight rear tailgate and spoiler, and the vented bonnet. Each element is a fusion of form and function, creating a visually stunning and aerodynamically optimized body, echoing the aggressive styling cues found in the Hoonicorn.
Transmission: Sadev Precision
Power is nothing without control, and the Cossie V2 boasts a state-of-the-art Sadev 6 Speed sequential transmission. This is complemented by Sadev SP03 Front and rear differentials, Sadev driveshafts, and Sadev propshafts, ensuring power is efficiently and reliably transferred to all four wheels. The Sadev gearchange tower and bell housing further enhance the drivetrain’s precision. An AP Racing Carbon Clutch ensures robust and responsive gear changes, essential for rally-inspired performance and mirroring the high-performance drivetrain demands seen in vehicles like the Hoonicorn.
Suspension: Reiger and WRC Heritage
For unparalleled handling and control, the Cossie V2 is equipped with Reiger shock absorbers. It incorporates Ford Escort WRC crossmembers and revised Ford Escort WRC suspension arms, adapted to suit the wide track geometry of the car. Revised front and rear suspension turret positions further refine the handling dynamics, promising exceptional grip and responsiveness, crucial for replicating the dynamic maneuvers associated with the Hoonicorn legacy.
Electronics: Cosworth Technology
The Cossie V2’s electronic brain is powered by cutting-edge Cosworth components. This includes a Cosworth ECU – MQ, a Cosworth IPS – Power unit, and a Cosworth Drivers Display – Omega, providing comprehensive control and feedback. A bespoke chassis and engine harness, along with a Cosworth switch panel, integrate all systems seamlessly. Notably, these electronic components are the same as those integrated into the Ford Fiesta World Rally Car, highlighting the high-performance pedigree of the Cossie V2, aligning with the advanced technology found in high-performance builds like the Hoonicorn.
Interior: Race-Ready Cockpit
Inside the Cossie V2, functionality and performance take center stage. A Recaro Racer SPA Seat provides optimal support and safety for high-G maneuvers. A Stilo intercom system facilitates clear communication, essential for rally environments. The interior is purpose-built for performance driving, stripped down and focused, much like the race-focused interiors often seen in vehicles inspired by the Hoonicorn philosophy.
Brakes: AP Racing and Ferodo Stopping Power
Ensuring immense stopping power, the Cossie V2 features AP Racing Brake calipers and AP Racing Brake discs. Ferodo Brake pads provide consistent and reliable braking performance, crucial for maintaining control at high speeds and under demanding conditions, a braking system designed for performance levels comparable to vehicles like the Hoonicorn.
Wheels and Tires: Rotiform and Toyo Grip
The Cossie V2 rolls on Rotiform VCE-M forged 3pc wheels in gloss white, sized 18×8.5 with a 4×108 PCD and 31 offset. These are wrapped in Toyo Tires Proxes, size 225/40ZR18, providing exceptional grip and handling. This wheel and tire combination is not only visually striking but also engineered for optimal performance, completing the Hoonicorn-esque aesthetic and performance package of the Cossie V2.
Cossie V2: A Hoonigan Spirit Reborn
Ken Block’s Cossie V2 is more than just a rebuilt rally car; it’s a statement. It’s a fusion of classic rally heritage and modern performance engineering, embodying the same spirit of innovation and boundary-pushing that defines the Hoonicorn and the entire Hoonigan ethos. This Ford Escort Cosworth isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to Ken Block’s passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of automotive performance and style, ensuring the Cossie V2 takes its rightful place alongside legends like the Hoonicorn in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
